Shalom: We'll Balance between Present and Future Needs

Energy and Water Minister Silvan Shalom discussed development of Israel's natural-gas industry with Chief Executive Officer Chuck Davidson of Noble Energy Incorporated, Thursday evening, at Shalom's office in Tel Aviv. Noble is one of the parties involved in the search for the fuel in Israel and off its shores.

Davidson detailed the need for cabinet approval of the 2011 Tzemach Committee report on fiscal policy relating to Israeli oil and gas resources to ensure continued exploration and production of the fuel in Israeli waters. Shalom responded by saying, "The government of Israel will strike the right balance between the needs of the economy, strengthening the Israeli economy and the concern to secure energy sources for future generations of Israel. " Noting that there were supporters and opponents in the cabinet, he said the cabinet debate will be serious and on its merits.